Spider Bites: Which Kind Are Dangerous?

Most spider bites are not fatally dangerous to humans. With the Uloboridae family of spiders being an exception, all other spiders are venomous to varying degrees, making spider bites potentially dangerous for humans. The potency of venom also varies between species. Out of the thousands of species, only a few spiders' bites are fatal for humans. There are two examples of spider bites considered most dangerous for humans – black widow spider bites and recluse spider bites. Often, spider bites cause symptoms such as redness, irritation, and pain. These not-so-dangerous spider bites can be treated at home. However, medical professionals can best treat any dangerous black widow spider bites or recluse spider bites.

Over-the-counter medications or pain relievers can be used for treating spider bites that are not dangerous to humans. Application of a wet cloth or a cooling pack is also useful for treating spider bites that are not dangerous to humans. Symptoms of a nondangerous spider bite may still need seven to 10 days to abate. The bites of other insects affecting humans such as bed bugs resemble spider bites. Hence, it is important to determine whether the bite is that of bed bugs or spiders. Since spider bites are rarer for humans, in most instances, bed bugs are more likely to bite humans.

Dangerous Spiders

Black widow and recluse spiders are considered dangerous for humans. Bites from both species of spiders are dangerous to humans and need emergency treatment. These are the two species of dangerous spiders commonly found in the U.S.

The black widow has a type of neurotoxic venom. The black widow spider bite is dangerous for humans as its venom directly affects the nervous system. The initial wound at the bite site may seem just like a pinprick. However, the venom of a black widow is more potent than the venom of a recluse spider. It can affect the human more quickly than the venom of a recluse spider. Neurotoxic venom blocks impulses to the muscles causing rigidity and cramps. This may even have a paralyzing effect. In other regions, the Australian funnel web spider is one of the examples of spiders that have neurotoxic venom.

The brown recluse spider has cytotoxic venom. The recluse spider is also called the violin spider. This name of the recluse spider comes from its marking that resembles a violin on the upper part of its back. A bite from a brown recluse spider resembles a mosquito bite. However, the wound from a recluse at the bite site is more noticeable. Necrosis occurs from the bite of a recluse spider, which leads to a breakdown of cells and tissues. Therefore, medical attention is required to prevent secondary infections following a bite by the recluse spider. Soreness caused by this spider bite is very slow to heal. This spider bite can also lead to flu-like symptoms.

Most spider bites are not dangerous. Nevertheless, there are some exceptions. Black widow and recluse spiders are dangerous to humans. Spider bites may resemble those of insects such as bed bugs. In addition, spider bites are not very common.

The information presented on this website is not intended as specific medical advice and is not a substitute for professional medical treatment or diagnosis. Read Newsmax Terms and Conditions of Service.